The University of Maine Foundation has appointed Sean Campbell as its new president and CEO, succeeding Jeffery Mills, who is retiring after 14 years.
Mills will retire Aug. 31. Sarah McPartland-Good, vice president and foundation general counsel, will serve as interim president and CEO until Campbell takes over on Oct. 19.
Campbell has 28 years of experience in higher education advancement and currently serves as vice president for advancement at Illinois Tech. He oversees fundraising and alumni relations programs for the university’s six schools, institutions and centers. During his first 18 months at Illinois Tech, his team secured $90 million in donations and pledges, including a $25 million gift.
Prior to joining Illinois Tech, he served four years as chief development officer at Loyola University Chicago. He helped secure $340 million during his tenure. He also served as vice president for advancement at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., and held senior fundraising positions for nearly 20 years at the University of Chicago and Bates College.
A Bangor native, Campbell earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Maine.
Foundation Board Chair Chris Keating led the search committee during a national search.
“Sean spoke with heartfelt conviction that access to higher education is a life-changing opportunity — one he sees uniquely enriched by the University of Maine experience,” said Keating. “His vision, blending respect for the legacy that will be left by Foundation President Jeff Mills with fresh, innovative ideas, impressed us deeply.
“Sean’s knowledge gained in a variety of pertinent roles at world-class institutions has uniquely prepared him for this moment. We are confident that under Sean’s guidance, our donors’ aspirations will be brought to life through the dedication and excellence of the Foundation’s staff.”
About the foundation
The University of Maine Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization that manages private support for UMaine. It has a 40-person staff with offices in Orono and Portland.
